Michael Williams

TE Alabama

Grade

Overview

Scouts aren’t going to confuse Williams with former Crimson Tide receiver-turned-Pro Football Hall of Fame tight end Ozzie Newsome –- but his receiving and blocking ability might remind them of Howard Cross, another Tide alum who started for the New York Giants for most of the 1990s.

Williams caught 16 passes for 191 yards and two touchdowns as a full-time starter (12 of 13 games played) for Alabama on its way to a BCS title in 2011, eclipsing his output from his previous two seasons –- though he did play a big role in those campaigns. As a redshirt freshman, he played in every game of the team’s BCS Championship run, starting three games despite catching just three passes for 29 yards because of his ability to move defenders. In 2010 his receiving production increased (8-100, TD) while he again played in every games, starting 11, for the Tide. As a Senior, Williams caught 24 passes for 183 yards and four touchdowns.

Analysis

Strengths

Flashes the hands and athletic ability to high-point passes over defenders, and is tough enough to work in traffic over the middle. Biggest contributions are as a run blocker, seals defensive ends inside on off-tackle plays in regular two tight end sets by consistently crashing the edge. Also effective moving his feet while engaged to get angle on backside rushers, especially when effectively using his strong hands.

Weaknesses

Straight-line speed might prove to be an issue; slow coming out of his stance and quite heavy-legged when lumbering down the field. Won’t elude or run away from defenders in his proximity after the catch. Quicker edge rushers give him troubles at times, as he doesn’t maintain his bend and will stop his feet instead of mirroring; eventually bends at the waist or is left behind by ends on their way to the quarterback. Used at H-back at times but lacks the flexibility to cut down or adjust to targets in space. Could get his hands inside more consistently when blocking to control his man.

NFL Comparison

Matt Spaeth

Bottom Line

Williams looks like a lean offensive tackle, and often blocks like one; he might have the speed of a lineman, as well, but his solid receiving hands and red zone presence will virtually guarentee that he sticks in the NFL for a very long time as a team's second tight end.